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Description

"Whenever illness is associated with loss of soul," writes Shaun McNiff, "the arts emerge spontaneously as remedies, soul medicine." The medicine of the artist, like that of the shaman, arises from his or her relationship to "familiars"—the themes, methods, and materials that interact with the artist through the creative process. Art As Medicine demonstrates how the imagination heals and renews itself through this natural process. The author describes his pioneering methods of art therapy—including interpretation through performance and storytelling, creative collaboration, and dialoguing with images—and the ways in which they can revitalize both psychotherapy and art itself.

News & Reviews

"This well-written book shows brilliantly the interplay between soul and sacred, art and shamanism, sickness and health. It is a mature product, combining lucid philosophy with hands-on experience, and contains profound insights into the human psyche."—Intuition

"The fast-growing field of expressive arts therapy recognizes Shaun McNiff to be its most perceptive pioneer and articulate teacher. Art As Medicine clearly displays his gifts and solidly confirms his reputation."—James Hillman

Reader Reviews

An Artist's Guide to Letting Go

Whether in painting, poetry, performance, music, dance, or life, there is an intelligence working in every situation. This force is the primary carrier of creation. If we trust it and follow its natural movement, it will astound us with… Read More

How Creativity Cures the Soul

The field of art therapy is discovering that artistic expression can be a powerful means of personal transformation and emotional and spiritual healing. In this book, Shaun McNiff, a leader in expressive arts therapy for more than three decades, reflects… Read More

Poetic Paths to Personal Growth

Psychotherapist David Richo offers a fresh and inspiring approach to personal growth: we can use the process of writing and reading poetry to move toward greater self-understanding and emotional healing. Even if you’ve never written a poem before, you can… Read More

Engaging the Sacred through the Practice of Art and Writing

Art is a spiritual path—not a religion, but a practice that helps us knit together the ideals and convictions that guide our lives. Creating art can be prayer, ritual, and remembrance of the Divine. And the sharing of this creativity… Read More

A Guide to Self-Knowledge and Spiritual Fulfillment through Creativity

Making art—giving form to the images that arise in our mind's eye, our dreams, and our everyday lives—is a form of spiritual practice through which knowledge of ourselves can ripen into wisdom. This book offers encouragement for everyone to explore… Read More

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